The 10 Most Common Signs of Drug Use and Addiction

What Is Addiction?

Drug addiction is the physical and psychological need to continue using a substance, despite its harmful or dangerous effects. It is important to keep in mind that these signs do not appear in every case, or for every drug addiction. However, these signs appear often enough that they are worth noticing and responding to with appropriate treatment.

What Are the 10 Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Drug Use and Addiction?

If you or someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, they could exhibit a few or all of the following signs and symptoms:

Cravings. People may experience intense urges or cravings for the drug as their addiction develops.

Physical dependence. Physical dependence to drugs can develop as people grow accustomed to the persistent presence and influence of the substance. The changes in physiology that accompany this process leave people feeling badly or functioning sub-optimally when the drug is no longer in the system.

Tolerance. Over time and with prolonged use, people can build up a tolerance to the drug, meaning they need more of the drug to achieve the desired effects.

Withdrawal symptoms. Some people experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop using abruptly or when they wean themselves off the drug over a period of time. This is the presence of a withdrawal syndrome indicates that physiologic dependence is at play.

Poor judgment. When an individual is addicted to drugs, he or she may do anything to obtain more, including risky behaviors such as stealing, lying, engaging in unsafe sexual activity, selling drugs, or crimes that could land the person in jail.

Drug-seeking. People may spend excessive amounts of time and energy finding and getting their drug of choice.

Financial trouble. People may spend large amounts of money, drain their bank accounts, and go outside their budgets in order to get the drug. This is a major red flag.

Neglect responsibilities. When people choose using or getting the drug over meeting work or personal obligations, this is a classic sign of addiction.

Develop unhealthy friendships. When people start using new substances, they may spend time with others who have similar habits. They may hang out with a new group of people who may encourage unhealthy habits.

Isolate. Alternatively, they may withdraw and isolate themselves, hiding their drug use from friends and family. Some reasons for this may include perceived stigma or increased depression, anxiety, or paranoia as a result of their drug addiction.

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